Wallaby hero David Pocock definitely won’t be staying with the Western Force next season.
The star openside is out of contract with the Perth-based franchise and his future has been subject to mass speculation for the past few months.
The Force had been keen to keep hold of their marquee man, especially as they lost fellow Wallaby James O’Connor to the Rebels this time last year, but Rugby Western Australia have today confirmed that Pocock will be moving on.
"For the past six months, RugbyWA has done everything within its power to retain his services as a leading player within the Emirates Western Force," read a statement from the Force.
"David's concerns were principally around the club's inability to recruit high-profile players with this challenge highlighted by the recent opportunity presented to Will Genia which ultimately was unsuccessful in bringing him to WA.
"This difficulty has since been acknowledged by the Australian Rugby Union in their provision of further concessions for the Emirates Western Force regarding international players for the 2013 season and beyond.
"While we are disappointed with his decision, we wish David well."
With the 21013 Lions on less than a year away, Pocock is destined to ignore big-money moves abroad and commit to another Australian franchise.
The Brumbies, who finished second in Super Rugby’s Australian Conference this season, are the heavy favourites to win his signature, with an announcement expected shortly.
